Suspected Eureka meth lab found during probation search

A probation search by Eureka Police Department patrol officers at a residence on the 2600 block of G Street turned up several suspicious items suspected to have been used during the manufacturing of methamphetamine, officials said today.

The structure was declared unsafe to occupy until further notice and a Chico company was called in to assist with the clean up.

Wednesday's search had been planned in response to a series of burglaries and thefts, which had recently occurred in the surrounding neighborhood.

Investigators with the Problem Oriented Policing Unit, or POP, responded to the scene to help identify the suspected meth lab materials and assist with the investigation.

The subject of the search, Glenn Ray Farmer, 35, initially denied he had manufactured any methamphetamine and said the materials were a "science experiment," according to the release. He reportedly later admitted he had unsuccessfully attempted to make methamphetamine in the residence.

Officials said officers vacated the house with the suspect. Caution tape was put up to isolate the scene and the immediate neighbors were advised of the situation. Humboldt Bay Fire responded to the scene to help assess the hazmat situation and assist with a possible natural gas leak in the residence, the release states.

Farmer was arrested on suspicion of possession of precursor chemicals with intent to manufacture, manufacturing a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, and probation violation.

Officials said they believe Farmer was trying to use a relatively new "shake and bake" method of manufacturing meth that involves combining raw, volatile ingredients in a container such as a two-liter soda bottle. If the bottle is punctured or the cap is removed too quickly, it can cause an explosion, severely injuring or burning the "cook" or anyone who happens to be nearby, the release states.

Editor's note: See Sunday's paper for a story on how cuts to the Department of Justice are leaving local law enforcement without help to shut down and clean up meth labs.